Ja Morant has been the center of attraction of a messy situation with his current team Memphis Grizzlies after the team fired their longtime coach, Taylor Jenkins, ahead of the playoffs. Jenkins was Morant's coach since he made his debut in 2019 as he led the team to three playoff appearances and one series win.
Ja Morant Trade Rumors: Five team that can land the star
According to reports, Morant is not happy with the team's offensive system that took the ball possession away from him. The changed offensive system led to Jenkins firing as only nine games are remaining in the regular NBA season. As the cracks between Grizzlies organization and Morant are slowly building up, general managers from across the league are looking at the situation and are eyeing to land the All-Star guard in their roster.
Little bit of the same vibe of the De'Aaron Fox situation, which is like, 'Keep your eyes on it and see where it goes, The Athletic’s Sam Amick said recently.
It's still unclear whether Morant will leave the franchise, but if he does, then here are the five teams he could land at.
New Orleans Pelicans
The New Orleans Pelicans are in dire need of star power, especially when their main player Zion Williamson is sidelined due to an injury. Morant would add the much needed firepower as the squad navigates through their own injury issues.
There is connection between Morant and Williamson as they both were the top picks in the 2019 draft. Morant could also team up with either DeJounte Murray or CJ McCollum, whoever stays with the team in a hypothetical trade with the Grizzlies.
Chicago Bulls
The Chicago Bulls have been looking for the missing star piece in their quest for the playoffs after trading Zach Lavine and DeMar DeRozan in the past year. The Bulls currently have Josh Gidley and Nikola Vucevic as their star players and both of them could complement Morant as well. Ayo Dosunmu and Patrick Williams could also play as the supporting cast for Morant.
Morant is one player which could get Chicago Bulls over the playoff line and provide much-needed identity to the franchise.
Detroit Pistons
The Detroit Pistons have a formidable team and could be among the top-five in the Eastern Conference. However, if they fail to make the finals, then they would look elsewhere for another star.
Ja Morant could be that star which could help the Pistons' quest for their first NBA championship since 2004. He would also complement Cade Cunningham in the backcourt, putting the team among the top East squads.
The Pistons also have the same attitude as Morant when he's on court, as they both play relentlessly and tough against any opponent in the NBA.
Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks are also looking to find the right piece alongside their star player Giannis Antetokounmpo and add to their 2021 title. While Damian Lillard provides offensive threat for the team, he has been inconsistent in his performances since joining the Bucks as his time has been plagued by injuries.
A trade for Morant would mean Bucks have a powerful duo with him and Giannis at the forefront. Both the stars would put immense pressure on any defense as they are driving threats.
Miami Heat
Ever since trading Jimmy Butler, the Miami Heat have lost their strong hold in the offense as Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro are not the scoring materials. Morant would be the perfect addition to the squad as he is considered to be one of the toughest players to guard in NBA. Morant would also be an ideal replacement for Butler.